Bath Rugby faced a pivotal moment on May 3, 2026, as they reached their first European semi-final in two decades, only to fall short against Bordeaux Begles with a score of 38-26 at Stade Atlantique Bordeaux Metropole.
The match unfolded in front of a sold-out crowd of 42,000 fans. Bath started strong, with Will Muir scoring two tries, showcasing the team’s determination. Louie Hennessey added another try early in the second half, bringing hope to Bath supporters.
However, Bordeaux’s relentless style—described as “organised chaos”—proved challenging for Bath’s structured efficiency. Ben Tameifuna scored a decisive try for Bordeaux, turning the tide in their favor.
As the clock wound down, Tom Carr-Smith managed to score a late consolation try for Bath, but it wasn’t enough to change the outcome. Following the match, Bath’s coach Johann van Graan reflected on the game.
Johann van Graan commented:
- “I want to make clear that the better team won on the day…”
- “All we want is consistency on both sides of the ball right through the competition.”
- “Congrats to UBB, they were the better side.”
This defeat marks a significant moment for Bath Rugby, who have not won a trophy in this competition for 29 years. Their journey to this semi-final has reignited enthusiasm among fans and players alike.
Bordeaux will now advance to face Leinster in the Champions Cup final, while Bath must regroup and focus on future challenges. The match was broadcasted across various platforms including Premier Sports and France TV, allowing fans to witness this historic moment.
